The Seattle Seahawks are officially putting quarterback Sam Howell on the trade block this offseason. According to a report, the Seahawks are open to trading Howell, and there have been multiple teams calling about his availability. Originally selected in the 2022 NFL Draft, the former North Carolina product began his tenure with the Washington Commanders, making his first career start with them at the end of his rookie campaign, but he was already out of postseason contention and made promising strides in that matchup. Howell couldn’t maintain his consistency after throwing four interceptions in Week 3 of the 2023 campaign, but he led the league in passing yards while tallying a single-season sack record by a quarterback.
It’s obvious that Howell has a strong arm, but the Commanders got 2024 draft pick Jayden Daniels as the future of their franchise. The Commanders traded Howell before the team selected Daniels with the first-round selection, and he was serving as a backup for former quarterback Geno Smith. It’s easy to see why the Seahawks are receiving interest, being that they signed Drew Lock last week to fill in the shoes and backup new starter Sam Darnold. Even though Howell has been remarkable in his first impression, it was a lackluster year for him last season.
ESPN: Former Commanders Fifth Round Pick Sam Howell On Trade Block – 5 Possible Next Teams
Potential Destinations
Washington Commanders
Even though veteran Marcus Mariota will be backing up Jayden Daniels and the Commanders again this season, the team might not have him for the future. Perhaps the Commanders could trade back for Howell to remain their long-term backup. This might be the perfect opportunity for Howell to learn from Daniels and Mariota, while they could lose Mariota, as he will likely want a starting role elsewhere.
New Orleans Saints
It’s been a chaotic offseason for the New Orleans Saints. The team will be without Derek Carr for the entire 2025 campaign, so new head coach Kellen Moore is left without an adequate quarterback. Spencer Rattler got a few chances last year, but the Saints should start taking chances on some quarterbacks to boost the competition. Howell and Rattler could battle it out at practice for the starting role.
Dallas Cowboys
Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys did well trading for Joe Milton this offseason. This means Dak Prescott could be on the hot seat if he can’t produce the results the organization wants despite his contract extension. Howell might not start, but after losing Cooper Rush and Trey Lance, it’s never a bad idea to have more than two quarterbacks.
Los Angeles Chargers
For the Chargers, they’re bringing in Trey Lance to help backup Taylor Heinicke and Justin Herbert. They also need more competition in that room in case Herbert goes down. Howell won’t win the job, but he’s more of a dependable backup on what head coach Jim Harbaugh should look for.
Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers’ offense seems to be in a good place as the team is finally getting the best out of quarterback Bryce Young. Despite that, the team is signing Andy Dalton to serve as their bridge starter again. He won’t last more than five more years, so it’s time for them to get a capable backup who’s younger, like Howell.
The post ESPN: Former Commanders Fifth Round Pick On Trade Block – 5 Possible Next Teams appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.